Budget & Lifestyle

When it comes to the Holiday season, thoughts of joy, celebration, and creating cherished memories with loved ones often come to mind. However, for many, the high cost of purchasing gifts, experiences, and travel can dampen the Holiday spirit.

At Financial Partners, we value the financial wellness of our Members. That's why it's important to approach Holiday spending wisely and consider practical ways to manage your money. Here are four tips to help you save during the Holidays without breaking the bank.

Set a Realistic Budget

Do you have a specific dollar amount in mind for your Holiday gift spending? Determine how much you need to save per week in order to reach that target, so you can shop without guilt.

Consider creating a detailed list of all anticipated expenses, including gifts for family and friends, decorations, travel expenses, and any special events or activities. Having a clear understanding of where your money will be allocated helps prevent impulsive purchases and encourages thoughtful, purposeful spending.

Use Your APEX Points*

Did you know, if you're a member of Financial Partners, you could already be earning APEX Rewards Points? And you can redeem your APEX Points for cashback, gift cards, travel, merchandise, and more! Your points could help pay for the last few items on your list, like that aunt you never know what to get…

To learn more about how to view, redeem, and access your points, click this link. 

Get Creative with Gifts and Embrace DIY

Calling all crafters! Sometimes the best gifts are the ones made with love. Personalized gifts from the heart can create beautiful memories for years to come. Celebrate milestones with friends and family by creating unique gifts that celebrate and honor the year they had - something personal that major department stores do not sell.

Additionally, consider alternatives to traditional gift-giving. Instead of buying a gift for every family member, suggest a Secret Santa or white-elephant gift exchange. This way, each person only needs to purchase one gift, reducing the financial strain for everyone involved.

Pick Up a Side Hustle

Instead of relying on credit cards or loans to get through the Holiday months, consider picking up a side hustle to earn extra cash. Some popular side hustle ideas include freelance writing, becoming a virtual assistant, or selling items or clothes that you no longer need.

Whether you decide to stick with your side hustle for the entire year or just for a few months, having additional supplemental income is always a good idea to help cover the expenses often associated with the Holidays.

Remember that this season is about creating cherished memories and connecting with loved ones. With careful preparation, you can enjoy the magic of the season without the worry of overspending.

_{*For complete details on the terms and conditions, please refer to the APEX Rewards Terms and Conditions.}